A little bit sideways Rallying in New Zealand, where we like to get A Little Bit Sideways! Up to date Rally News from teams around the country together with event reports.
Queenstown’s Mike Sheehan heads to the final round of the Brian Green Property Group New Zealand Rally Championship with one hand on the trophy, requiring only one point from the Handy Rentals Waitomo Rally this weekend.
In his first full season at a national level, Sheehan has been a model of consistency, securing top two placings in four of the five rounds to date that have secured him a 30-point lead prior to the season finale.
A season victory would continue a strong run for Sheehan, who twice was victorious in the Mainland Class B (1301-1600cc) in his first two full seasons of rallying, before setting his sights on the NZRC for 2019.
Having begun a partnership with experienced co-driver Glenn Goldring late in 2018, Sheehan has taken plenty from the relationship in the season to date.
“I’m thoroughly enjoying the relationship we’ve developed both inside and outside the car. We have a lot of laughs, but Goldie is also a man who knows how to get down to business when it matters,” says Sheehan.
Another new addition to the team that has lifted them in 2019 is crew chief Paul Cartmell, who comes with a large deal of professionalism and knowledge after stints with several top teams in recent seasons.
“Waitomo presents another opportunity to learn and experience some more top quality New Zealand roads, with the stages looking fast but technical, with several sections that look like they could catch out the unwary – I can’t wait to tackle them in the Truck Moves Ford Fiesta R2.
“Our sponsors have been key to making this season possible. We cannot thank them enough for their support.”
Sheehan and the team would like to thank Truck Moves NZ, Frankton Automotive, Frankton Tyre Services, Interislander, Speedy Signs & EmbroidMe Queenstown, Winmax by Paddon Rallysport and Palmside for their support throughout the 2019 season.
The 2019 Handy Rentals Waitomo Rally starts from Piopio at 7:25am, with six mammoth special stages totalling 198.04km of special stages in the Waikato region, before the rally finishes at Southwell School in Hamilton from 5pm.
Press Release by BB Media
